An interview with Fito Santa-Olalla, President of AEDPAC and CEO of Zolux and Pisciber

1. Iberzoo Propet, has become an established annual get-together for the entire sector. What do you think is the secret to this success?

I believe that the key has been to continue endorsing a unique formula in the trade fair landscape of this sector, which is based on bringing together the entire value chain in one place: veterinarians, laboratories, food, pharmaceutical and healthcare products, equipment, accessories, and services.

Do you think this mix creates synergies and that it optimises and adds value to the exhibitor and visitor experience?

Naturally, the diversity and proposals enable visitors to make the most of their time at the event and for visitors to connect with different audiences.

2. More visitors flock to the event every year. What profiles can we expect to see in this edition?

There are two main types of professional visitors linked to pet shops and retailers and professionals from veterinary clinics. There is also a significant group of grooming professionals and more ancillary service companies that offer end consumers products like insurance, pet food, etc.

Do you think that stores with a veterinary practice or veterinary practices with stores will become the standard format that users or pet parents expect?

It isn’t easy to predict, although everything indicates that this is what clients prefer to make the most of their time. The proof is that most clinics and veterinary health centres have stores that sell products, and many retail chains and pet shops offer veterinary services, among others. This format is taking over due to its business profitability and customer interest.

3. Which main features or changes have been introduced this time that were not available in previous editions?

Portugal is the guest country because there are far more loyal visitors from this country than any other. This is why, during the Sector Afternoon, we will present the first barometer of pet parents in Spain and Portugal, featuring previously unseen data that will give us a deeper understanding of the differences and similarities in the habits and behaviours of pet parents in both countries. Meanwhile, ARTERO Days, a company associated with AEDPAC, will surprise us - as it does every year - with its characteristic presentation, displaying its new proposals and training to a specialised audience.

4. How does AEDPAC contribute to the overall event?

In addition to its role as a co-sponsor of the event alongside colleagues from AMVAC, AEDPAC organises the Forum for the industry and commerce of the sector and participates in awarding the Antón Awards, including the prize for Business Trajectory and Entrepreneur of the Year. Furthermore, we always strive to reach agreements with other entities or institutions to hold events that add value to the exhibition, such as photography exhibitions and events of particular relevance that we programme to coincide with the dates of the fair, thereby enriching the content.

What is the outlook for the 7th FORUM?

For this edition, we have the collaboration of entities and associations with which we share experiences in other areas, providing us with value and knowledge in the selection of topics and speakers. ANFAAC, CEVE, AMVAC, and the Directorate-General for Animal Rights will be there with presentations and round table discussions of enormous interest to the entire sector.

What is the position as regards the international expansion of the event? Do you think it should become established as an international trade fair or open up to international professional visitors?

More than 1,000 visitors from more than 10 countries attended the last edition. For this edition, we have noticed a significant increase in international participation and presence, not only in terms of exhibiting companies but also in visitor requests. Therefore, we hope to build on these figures and for the event to develop a more international profile.

5. The coincidence with the VetMadrid Congress is a key value in Iberzoo Propet's offering. Do you think that in the future, other events could be added to create more content and attract a larger audience?

VetMadrid is a true driving force for Iberzoo Propet due to its ability to attract specialist audiences, exhibitors who collaborate with the congress, and its renowned excellence in scientific and academic content. We are not averse to adding initiatives that meet these criteria and complement the current offering.

Lastly, on a personal note,

1. Do you have or have you ever had a pet? If so, what kind?

Obviously, I have always been surrounded by all species of fish in every shape, colour, and origin imaginable. It is the advantage of working in the aquarium business that my father founded.

2. How does this enhance your personal and family life?

It connects me to my childhood and what is now my profession.

3. How often do you go to the vet?

Luckily for me, I have one at home.